Ancient fossils still lie hidden in the bold and bronzen buttes of Badlands National Park, a protected wilderness penetrated by hiking and biking trails.
A 0.8-mile loop that leads through the trees of Crystal Forest, which were once covered quartz and purple amethyst crystals that developed in the hollows of the logs as the trees petrified.
In the late 1800s, before the establishment of Petrified Forest National Monument, many of these logs were dynamited by those seeking these semi-precious gems. Massive petrified trees were blasted to the small chips you can still see scattered about.
Details
Length:
0.8 mile loop
Difficulty:
Easy
Additional Details:
This paved trail may be negotiated with strollers, although there are a few steep hills. Wheelchairs may be used to access the shade shelter with assistance, but are not recommended on the loop.
Below are the Free Visitor Guides for Petrified Forest National Park. More Visitor Guides are available in South Dakota. Click here to view them all!
Arizona - The Grand Canyon State Arizona
Arizona - The Grand Canyon State
ArizonaStart planning your Arizona vacation with the Official State Visitor's guide - available in print, electronically, or both. Fill out the form to request your free travel packet, which includes an Arizona Official State Visitor's Guide and an Arizona state highway map. The Arizona Office of Tourism ships domestically as well as the following countries only: United Kingdom, Germany, France, Japan, Canada and Mexico. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
Maverick Helicopters Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California
Maverick Helicopters
Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and CaliforniaUnforgettable Tours Offered in Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, and California. Request this Free Visitor GuideRequested!You're all set! Request a few more Visitor Guides, or complete the form below to receive your guides by mail.
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